(Begonia 'Marmaduke') bah-GO-nyah Genus:  Begonia 'Marmaduke' Rex begonia sports chocolate-colored speckles across golden leaves. The earth tones of 'Marmaduke' go well with solid-colored foliage plants and yellow or rusty-hued blooms. -Rita Randolph, Rex begonias, Fine Gardening issue #120 Care:  Provide organic, sharp-draining soil in shade with lots of humidity. Water when soil is dry to the touch. Avoid soggy conditions, but do not allow plants to wilt. Do not fertilize heavily. Remove dead leaves promptly and keep the soil surface free of debris to avoid disease problems. Propagation:  Leaf cuttings can take six months to produce a new plant, but stem cuttings typically root in about three weeks in favorable conditions. Problems:  Mildew, Botrytis, mealybugs.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Suitable as Annual Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials